The Hinoki cypress tree (檜 or 桧) is an arboreal treasure native to central Japan. Well-known for it's aromatherapeutic properties, it also happens to be the favorite wood for erecting palaces and shrines (神社), the preferred plank in putting together traditional bath areas and soaking tubs (お風呂), and generally the best board for building caskets (棺) that carry "sleeping" emperors into the ground. In fact, the Hinoki grown in a region called Kiso are often referred to as the "tree where god stayed" (御神木). Looks like the Hinoki tree should be adding the title of "Wearable Fragrance" to its resumé, as Comme des Garcons has absolutely captured the very essence of the coveted conifer in collaboration with Monocle Magazine.

Notes of lemon, vetiver, incense, thyme, and moss round out this fresh and woodsy assemblage. Consider it an environment encapsulated; the earthy resonance of cypress wood, the freshness of the leafy surroundings, the drifting currents of incense wafting from the open doors of an old temple. A perfect wear for all seasons, this perennial favorite is now back in stock at Blackbird Apothecary, along with a host of other old stand-bys. Stop in now to have a smell, or check it out in our online store.

P.S. For fans of Hinoki, be sure to check out the Comme des Garcons Incense Series and Hinoki's greener counterpart, Laurel.